AT THE PARTY
When they arrived, Dylan stepped out first, making his way around to open her door. Ember smiled as she placed her hand in his, allowing him to guide her out of the car. His touch was firm yet gentle, sending a rush of warmth through her. For a fleeting moment, it felt like something straight out of a fairytale.
At the entrance, a security guard greeted them.
"Welcome, Mr. Dylan... and madam?" The guard hesitated, clearly unsure of who Ember was.
Dylan, unfazed, offered a small smile. "Feel free." Then, turning to Ember, he gave her a reassuring look.
She returned a small nod, trying to steady her nerves as they stepped into the grand hall.
The room was dazzling—filled with elegantly dressed guests, the clinking of glasses, and the soft hum of conversation. The moment they entered, heads turned, and whispers began to spread through the crowd.
"They look so cute together," someone murmured.
"Is that Dylan?" another voice asked, filled with curiosity and excitement.
The murmurs only grew louder.
"Here comes Mr. Dylan!" reporters suddenly called out, their cameras flashing in rapid succession.
Ember stiffened, caught off guard by the overwhelming attention. She instinctively leaned closer to Dylan and whispered, "Why are there so many reporters?"
Dylan turned to her, his lips curling into an amused smile. "Don't you know? I'm kind of a star."
Ember's eyes widened before she smirked, deciding to tease him. "Oh... I almost forgot."
Ember's mind raced as she turned to Dylan, eyes wide with nervous anticipation.
"So... what's your plan?" she asked hesitantly.
Dylan glanced at her, completely at ease. "I'm going to tell everyone about us," he said casually, as if it were the simplest thing in the world.
Her heart nearly stopped. "No! Not now. I'm not ready for that." The mere thought of their relationship being exposed in front of so many people made her stomach twist with nerves.
Dylan chuckled softly, amused by her reaction. "Okay, okay. When the reporters come over, just move aside."
Ember exhaled in relief. "That sounds like a good plan."
As they stepped further into the hall, the inevitable happened—the reporters swarmed in like a tidal wave.
"Dylan! Dylan!" they shouted, shoving microphones forward, their cameras flashing relentlessly.
Instinctively, Dylan reached out and took Ember's hand, steadying her against the chaos.
Ember's breath hitched at the sudden contact. "What are you doing?" she whispered, her pulse quickening.
The questions came at them from every direction.
"Mr. Dylan, you look amazing tonight! Who is this young lady with you? Is she your girlfriend? Miss, can you tell us your name? Are you his co-star?"
The blinding flashes made Ember wince, her vision momentarily overwhelmed.
"Ow... my eyes," she muttered, raising a hand to shield her face.
Without hesitation, Dylan stepped in front of her, his expression turning serious. His voice was calm yet firm as he addressed the press.
"Stop. You're scaring her. No more pictures."
The room fell into a stunned silence, the authority in his voice undeniable. Ember, still recovering from the overwhelming attention, found herself looking up at him with awe. He had stepped in without a second thought—protecting her, shielding her.
And in that moment, she realized something.
Dylan wasn't just holding her hand to steady her.
He was holding it because he wanted to.
Dylan turned back to Ember, his expression softening as his eyes met hers.
"If you want me to, I'll answer," he said quietly, his voice laced with reassurance.
Then, without hesitation, he faced the reporters once more.
"First of all, she's my friend. Second, she won't be answering any of your questions. And third, stay away from her." His tone was calm, yet firm—leaving no room for argument.
The reporters hesitated, their excitement momentarily dulled by his authoritative presence. Dylan continued, his voice unwavering.
"You can ask me anything, but keep it about me, not her. And only three questions, because I have a party to attend."
As he spoke, he leaned down slightly, his breath warm against Ember's ear.
"You can go now. Just don't go too far—I need to be able to find you."
Before pulling away, he pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, a fleeting yet deliberate touch that sent Ember's mind spiraling into chaos. Her breath hitched, and warmth spread across her face.
For a moment, she stood frozen, unable to react. Her heart pounded wildly in her chest, her thoughts tangled in emotions she couldn't quite grasp.
Slowly, she took a step back, then another, finally finding a quiet corner where she could sit and steady herself. She placed a hand over her chest, trying to calm the rapid beat of her heart.
Finally, I can breathe again… she thought, exhaling shakily.
It wasn't that she wanted to hide their relationship—it was just too soon. She wasn't ready for this kind of attention.
And yet, with just one kiss… Dylan had effortlessly stolen her composure.
ON THE COUCH
Sitting on the plush couch, Ember let out a soft sigh, her gaze drifting toward Dylan, who was still surrounded by reporters. The flashing cameras illuminated his sharp features, highlighting the way he effortlessly posed for the press. Dressed in all black, he looked impossibly handsome—his presence commanding, his confidence undeniable.
He's too busy today… she thought, a small pout forming on her lips.
Lost in her thoughts, she barely noticed when a voice suddenly broke through the noise.
"Hello, beautiful girl!"
"The words, spoken in the local language, startled her. Ember blinked and looked up, only to find a man smiling down at her."
"Sorry, I don't understand the language," she admitted, shaking her head.
The man chuckled before smoothly switching to English. "Oh? You don't know me?"
Ember hesitated before responding, "No, I'm new here."
"Ah, well, my name is Chen Eun Woo, but girls like you can call me Eun Woo," he introduced himself with a confident smile.
Ember raised an eyebrow, already wary. "Hello, Mr. Woo. I'm Ember." She gave a polite nod before asking, "And what do you mean by 'girls like me'?"
Eun Woo leaned in slightly, his grin widening. "Because you're the most beautiful girl at this party."
Ember let out a soft chuckle, though she wasn't entirely comfortable. "Thanks for the compliment, Mr. Woo."
Without missing a beat, Eun Woo slid into the seat next to her. "Why don't we become friends?"
Ember hesitated for a moment before responding flatly, "I don't talk to strangers."
He smirked. "Then let's not be strangers anymore."
Ember sighed, not sure how to respond. "Hmm…"
Seeing her reluctance, Eun Woo's curiosity deepened. "So, tell me… who's the lucky person you're with tonight?"
A knowing smirk played on Ember's lips as she glanced past him. "I think you can see him."
Eun Woo frowned slightly. "Where?" he asked, turning to look.
Ember tilted her head toward the figure standing just behind him. "Right there," she said, a playful glint in her eyes.
When Eun Woo turned, his face lit up with a grin.
"Hey, brother!" he greeted, pulling Dylan into a tight hug and speaking in local language.
Ember stood in silence, unsure of what to say.
Dylan's expression darkened as he pulled away from Eun Woo. His voice was firm as he responded in local language, "What are you doing with my girl?"
Eun Woo's grin widened. "Oh, nothing. Just a little flirting."
Ember furrowed her brows, confusion flickering in her eyes. "Why are you two speaking in local language? And… do you know him?"
Eun Woo chuckled, his gaze shifting between the two. "Ember, this is my best friend, Dylan. Don't you know him?" He raised an eyebrow playfully. "Why is she asking me to introduce you?"
Dylan looked momentarily surprised. "She's asking me about you ?"
Eun Woo shrugged. "Okay, fine."
Dylan gently took Ember's hand and pulled her closer. "Baby, come here." He smiled, his grip firm and reassuring.
"She's my girlfriend," Dylan stated proudly.
Eun Woo blinked in shock. "What? Girlfriend, just like that? No build-up?"
Ember crossed her arms, narrowing her eyes. "What do you mean by 'just like that'?"
Dylan rolled his eyes. "Just ignore him, babe. He's talking rubbish."
Ember shot him a sideways glance. "Are you hiding something from me again?"
Dylan hesitated for a split second before quickly shaking his head. "No, of course not."
Eun Woo's grin turned mischievous. "Wait… 'again'? What happened before? Come on, tell me!" He laughed, clearly enjoying the tension.
"Shut up!" Dylan and Ember snapped at the same time.
Dylan sighed and shook his head. "Baby, don't listen to him. He's always full of nonsense. I'm not hiding anything from you. You trust me, right?"
Ember took a deep breath, exhaling slowly. After a pause, she nodded. "Yes, I trust you. Let's just drop this, okay?"
Dylan's tense expression softened into a smile. "Agreed. Let's go meet Emir."
Ember gave a small nod. "Okay."
As they made their way to the gathering, Emir stood with his arms crossed, an eyebrow raised in amusement.
"You guys are late."
Dylan smirked, slipping his hands into his pockets. "You know girls take forever to get ready."
Ember shot him a sharp look. "Excuse me? I don't take that long. It was you who spent over an hour in the changing room."
Dylan looked genuinely taken aback. "Me?"
Ember folded her arms, tilting her head. "Yes, you."
Emir chuckled, watching the exchange before turning to Ember. "Hello, Ember."
She snapped out of her playful irritation and smiled awkwardly. "Oh, I almost forgot—hello, Emir. Happy birthday!"
Emir grinned, his eyes lighting up. "Thanks, Ember."
Ember reached into her bag and handed him a small box. "This is for you."
He accepted the gift with a grateful smile. "Thanks, but you don't have to be so formal."
Before Ember could respond, Dylan interrupted, his tone laced with playful jealousy. "You didn't get me a gift."
Ember rolled her eyes. "It's Emir's birthday, not yours. Why would I bring something for you?"
Emir lifted his hands in surrender. "Alright, alright, calm down." Then, leaning in slightly, he whispered in Ember's ear, "It's not really my birthday."
Ember blinked, momentarily thrown off. "What?"
Emir shrugged, completely unbothered. "Yeah."
She narrowed her eyes. "Then why are we celebrating today?"
He smirked. "It's a long story. I'll tell you when we're free."
Ember studied his face before nodding slowly. "Hmm, alright."
Emir gestured toward the party. "Shall we go?"
Eun Woo practically bounced with excitement. "Finally! Let's head to the party."
Ember hesitated. "This isn't the party?"
Eun Woo's grin turned mischievous. "What, did you think we're celebrating like it's the 1900s? A plain piano and some food?"
Ember frowned. "What do you mean by that?"
Before Eun Woo could answer, Dylan cut in smoothly. "Baby, you'll see when we get there."
Ember sighed, already sensing something was up. "Fine."
Emir laughed. "Are you two done bickering? Ember, come with me. Let's go."
She nodded. "Okay."
As they started walking, Dylan called out, "Hey, Ember!"
She smirked and pretended not to hear, turning to Emir instead. "Did you hear something?"
Emir played along, shaking his head. "Nope, nothing."
Dylan groaned behind them, but Ember simply laughed, enjoying the small victory.
The lift doors slid open, and Ember's eyes widened as she took in the scene before her.
"What is this?" she asked, her voice barely audible over the pounding music.
Emir stood beside her, a knowing smile on his lips. "Do you like it?" he asked, gesturing toward the flashing lights and the sea of dancing bodies.
Ember instinctively lifted her hands to cover her ears. "It's... too loud."
Her thoughts raced. Downstairs, everything had seemed so elegant and refined, but up here… it was a completely different world—a wild, electrifying rock-style party.
Just then, another lift arrived with a soft ding.
Dylan stepped out, his expression a mix of frustration and amusement. "Why did you leave without me?" he asked, his eyes locking onto Ember's.
She tilted her head, struggling to hear him over the music. "What did you say?"
Dylan let out a small sigh, shaking his head. "Never mind, just forget it." Then, without hesitation, he reached for her hand, his fingers warm against her skin. "Come with me."
A small smile played on Ember's lips. "Okay."
As Dylan led her away, the atmosphere shifted. The flashing lights faded, the music softened, and the energy of the party transformed as they stepped into the next room...
Dylan smiled warmly as he gestured around the room. "This is a soundproof room. You can relax your ears here."
A relieved sigh escaped Ember's lips. "Yeah, the music was way too loud."
Dylan chuckled and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Let me grab something for us to drink. Be right back."
Ember nodded. "Okay."
As Dylan stepped out, the door opened again, and Emir walked in, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. His eyes gleamed with mischief as he leaned against the wall. "So, how do you like it here? Or would you recommend the downstairs party instead?"
A soft chuckle escaped Ember. "This is actually the first time I've been to two completely different types of parties in one night."
Emir raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Really? You don't go to many parties? Not even in the real world?"
Ember gave a small shrug. "Yeah, not really. I don't particularly enjoy parties."
Emir's smirk softened into a more thoughtful smile. "That's surprising. Most people can't seem to stay away from them."
Ember studied him for a moment before tilting her head slightly. "By the way, can you explain why you're celebrating your birthday today? I mean, it's not actually your birthday, is it?"
A teasing glint flickered in Emir's eyes as his grin returned. "Ah, I suppose I should properly introduce myself this time—not like before." He paused dramatically before speaking again, his tone light and playful. "I'm Emir. Emir Sarafoglu. I'm from country T Haliçis ." Ember smiled, allowing herself to relax a little. "Nice to meet you, Emir."
He leaned back slightly, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "Dylan and I met at school. We studied together in country A. After we finished, he returned here, and I went back home to Haliçis .I missed him, so I decided to join college here so we could hang out again."
Ember's gaze softened, admiration shining in her eyes. "Wow, what a beautiful friendship you two have."
Emir grinned, his expression filled with warmth. "Yeah, we're pretty close." He gave a casual shrug before continuing. "The reason I'm celebrating my birthday today is because, when my actual birthday comes around, I usually spend it with my family. So, I thought it would be fun to celebrate early with my friends."
Ember's smile deepened, warmth spreading through her chest. "That's a really nice thought."
Emir nodded, his eyes glinting with excitement. "Yeah. And when I go back home, I'll invite you and Dylan to visit my place. I'm sure you'd love it there."
A spark of excitement lit up Ember's eyes. "I'd love that."
In Another Side
Dylan stood at the bar, tapping his fingers lightly against the counter. "Two glasses of juice, please."
A familiar voice, laced with amusement, broke through the hum of conversation. "So, when did my best friend start going juice-only? No drinks tonight?"
Dylan turned to see Darren Chen approaching with a smirk. A small grin tugged at Dylan's lips. "Oh, Darren, you're here too."
Darren chuckled, slipping his hands into his pockets. "I was just passing by, so I thought I'd join you all."
Dylan raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "You always said you don't like parties like this."
Darren gave a nonchalant shrug. "Yeah, well... she didn't want to come alone, so I joined her."
Dylan's intrigue deepened. "She's here too?"
Darren nodded. "Yep."
Just then, the waiter returned, setting two glasses on the counter. "Sir, your juice."
Dylan gestured toward the other room. "Serve them in that room, please."
Turning back to Darren, a knowing glint in his eyes, Dylan motioned toward the hallway. "Come on, I've got someone to introduce you to."
Darren smirked, "Alright, I will be there in a minute"
In the Room
Ember leaned in slightly, her eyes filled with curiosity as she looked at Emir. "Hey, Emir, can you tell me more about Dylan? What he like ? Has he had a girlfriend before me?" Her voice was soft, almost pleading.
Emir chuckled, his lips curling into an amused smile. "Alright, I'll tell you—"
Before he could finish, the door swung open, and Dylan stepped inside, his sharp gaze flickering between them. Suspicion clouded his expression. "What are you going to tell her?"
Ember's heart skipped a beat. She quickly shook her head, throwing Emir a subtle look as if urging him to stay quiet. "Nothing, just small talk," she said, her voice light and casual.
Emir played along, flashing a mischievous grin. "Yeah, just a harmless conversation."
Relieved, Ember shot Emir a grateful smile before turning back to him. "By the way, Emir, can I get your number?"
Dylan's frown deepened, his protective instincts kicking in. "Why?"
Emir chuckled, clearly enjoying the tension. "Don't you think she should have some contacts in case you're busy and she needs help?"
Dylan crossed his arms stubbornly, his jaw tightening. "I'll answer every single call from her. I won't leave her alone."
Just then, Eun Woo strolled in, a teasing grin on his face. "Even when you're in the washroom?"
Dylan shot a playful glare. "Hey, you."
Emir smirked, leaning back casually. "Remember what happened before? You might want to reconsider."
Dylan sighed, rubbing his temples as if already regretting his decision. "Alright, fine. You're allowed to give her your number."
Before Emir could respond, Eun Woo leaned in with a mischievous grin. "And mine is 963—"
Dylan quickly cut him off. "No, not yours. Only Emir's!"
Ember laughed, shaking her head at their antics. "Stop fighting, you two. Woo, don't worry, I'll take your number too… you know, for safety." She added a playful wink.
Dylan huffed dramatically, crossing his arms in mock frustration. "Hmph."
Ember giggled, nudging him lightly. "Dylan, could you please save their numbers in my phone? I actually need to use the powder room ."
She pushed back her chair, standing up as she stretched slightly. "I'm going to the powder Room," she announced casually.
But before she could take a step, Dylan immediately countered, "I'll take their numbers after we come back. I'll come with you."
Ember let out a small sigh. "I can go by myself, just tell me the way."
Dylan, however, remained firm, shaking his head. "No, I'm coming."
Ember rolled her eyes slightly but couldn't hide the small smile tugging at her lips. "Okay, fine. Just lead the way."
Dylan grinned and motioned for Ember to follow. "Come with me."
With a small sigh, Ember fell into step behind him. As they passed by, Emir took notice, a teasing glint in his eyes. He let out a laugh. "He's way too bossy with his girlfriend."
Eun Woo chuckled, shaking his head. "This is the first time I've seen a boyfriend ordering his girlfriend around."
Their laughter drew the attention of Darren Chen, who approached with curiosity. "What are you two laughing about?"
Eun Woo and Emir exchanged amused glances before Emir smirked. "Oh, Darren, you're here too."
Darren gave a nod, his expression unreadable. "Yeah, and she's here too."
Eun Woo and Emir exchanged quick looks before scanning the room. "Her? Where is she?" Eun Woo asked, intrigued.
Darren's tone remained casual as he gestured toward the bar. "She's at the bar table."
As Ember stepped out of the restroom, her eyes immediately found Dylan waiting for her. She offered him a small smile. "Let's go."
Before she could take another step, Dylan suddenly grabbed her hand, gently pulling her against the wall. Her breath hitched, heart pounding. "Dylan..." she murmured, her pulse quickening.
He leaned in, his gaze intense, searching hers. "What name did you save my number under?"
Ember hesitated, suddenly unsure. "I... I don't know."
Dylan arched an eyebrow, unconvinced. "Really?"
She swallowed, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes."
A slow, knowing smile played on his lips. "When I saved my number in your phone, I noticed it was under Emir's name. And now…"
Heat rushed to Ember's cheeks as realization dawned. "Oh, that…"
Before she could finish, Dylan silenced her with a sudden, unexpected kiss. It was brief but enough to steal her breath, leaving her stunned. She pulled back, gasping softly. "Dylan, stop."
But he only smiled, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face, his touch lingering. "You gave me your phone earlier, remember? You wanted me to check something." His voice was low, teasing. "You saved my number as 'Forever Mine.' Right?"
Ember's heart skipped a beat. The warmth in his eyes, the tenderness in his voice—it made her melt.
She exhaled shakily, her lips parting into a soft smile. "I… love you," she whispered.
" I love you too , Dylan say while kissing her forehead.
After a moment, Dylan took a step back, his expression unreadable. "Go back to the room. I'll be right there."
Ember hesitated, sensing something off. "Is everything okay?" Concern laced her voice.
"Yes, just go first. I'll follow," he assured her.
Though uncertain, Ember nodded and turned away. But as she walked, a strange feeling settled in her chest. That's odd… she thought. First, he didn't want me going to the restroom alone, and now he's telling me to go back on my own?
She cast a quick glance over her shoulder, but Dylan had already disappeared from sight.
Not far from where Ember had left him, Dylan had run into an unexpected situation. His jaw clenched as he spotted Chen Xiao lingering in the shadows, looking anything but steady.
His voice was sharp as he stepped closer. "What are you doing here?"
Chen Xiao turned toward him, a slow, slurred smile forming on his lips. His eyes were hazy, the unmistakable scent of alcohol surrounding him. "This is the first time you've talked to me like this. Have you forgotten we're friends?"
Dylan's expression hardened. "I haven't forgotten," he said, his tone tense. "I think you have. What's going on with you? Why are you doing this?"
Chen Xiao let out a careless laugh, waving him off with a lazy shrug. "I'm just here to celebrate my friend's birthday. What, am I supposed to be in two places at once?"
Dylan's patience was wearing thin. His gaze darkened as he stepped closer. "Stop drinking. Let's go inside."
But Chen Xiao resisted, stumbling slightly as he pulled back. "Hey, where are you taking me?"
Back at the room,
Ember returned, trying to shake off the uneasiness lingering from earlier. She slid into her seat and offered a small smile. "Hey, guys, I'm back."
Eun Woo looked up and grinned. "Perfect timing! Let me introduce you to our new member… Ember." He gestured toward the man sitting across from her.
The man smiled warmly and extended his hand. "Hello, Ember. I'm Darren Chen."
Ember shook his hand, her curiosity piqued. "Hello." Then, turning to Emir, she asked, "Can I know exactly how you two met?"
Emir chuckled and patted the seat beside him. "Come sit, Ember. Let me tell you."
She scooted closer, leaning in slightly as Emir began. ""Darren is one of our best friends, and Woo is too. We all studied together in college from our bachelor's, and over time, we became really close."
Realizing she hadn't properly introduced herself, Ember suddenly stood up, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Oh! I'm so sorry for being rude, Mr. Chen. Nice to meet you." She extended her hand once more.
Darren laughed, shaking her hand again with amusement. "Mr. Chen? What a formal title you've given me!" he teased.
Emir smirked, throwing in a casual remark. "Darren, by the way, she's Dylan's girlfriend."
Darren's eyes lit up with recognition. "Oh! That explains it. Nice to meet you, Ember. And please, just call me Darren."
Ember smiled, finally feeling at ease. "Alright, Darren."
Just then, Ember's attention was pulled away as she caught sight of someone. Her eyes widened in recognition and concern. "Dylan!" she called out, her voice filled with both relief and curiosity.
"Dylan! Cheng Xiao!" Ember called out again, her concern deepening as she hurried toward them.
Dylan looked up, his expression slightly strained. "Come help me," he said, his tone firm yet calm.
Without hesitation, Emir and Darren stepped forward. "We're coming," they said in unison.
As they reached and help xioa, Ember's gaze fell upon Cheng Xiao, lying unconscious on the sofa. Her heart clenched. "What happened to her?"
Dylan exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "Nothing serious—she's just drunk. That's why I brought her here. She wasn't safe out there."
Ember let out a small sigh of relief, nodding in understanding. "Yeah, you did the right thing. My boyfriend is too kind."
Darren smirked, folding his arms. "Yeah, your boyfriend is too kind. But why bring her here? You could've just taken her to her room upstairs."
Dylan shook his head. "I thought it'd be inappropriate to take my friend to her room when my girlfriend is right here. What if she misunderstood and thought we..."
Before he could finish, Ember cut him off, her voice sharp. "Stop it. It's late. Take her upstairs. It's not good for her to lie on the sofa—it's way too uncomfortable." She shot him a pointed look. "And Dylan, don't say things like that again." Her expression carried both disapproval and a hint of concern.
Dylan chuckled lightly, attempting to diffuse the tension. "I was just joking."
Darren rolled his eyes. "She's right. Woo, come help me."
Woo shrugged lazily. "Why don't you take Emir with you?"
Darren glanced at Emir, who was clearly still the center of attention at the party. "He's the spotlight tonight," Darren remarked.
Woo then turned to Dylan. "Dyl—"
But Darren quickly cut him off. "Don't say that. Can't you see he's busy with his girlfriend?"
Woo sighed in defeat. "Okay, okay."
As they left, Emir leaned toward Dylan, his voice low. "Don't take those words seriously. He's just..."
Dylan waved him off with a knowing smile. "I know."
Meanwhile, Ember, exhausted from the night, had dozed off on the sofa. When they were chatting after they left with xioa ,Dylan's gaze softened as he noticed her peaceful expression. He turned to Emir and murmured, "She's fallen asleep."
Emir nodded in understanding. "Just take her home. She looks really tired."
"Yeah," Dylan agreed, already reaching for his phone. Without hesitation, he called his driver. "Get the car ready."
The driver's voice crackled over the line. "Yes, sir. I'll meet you at the door."
"Okay," Dylan replied before ending the call.
Once they arrived home, Dylan carefully carried Ember to the bed, laying her down gently. As she stirred, a soft whimper escaped her lips. "Oh… my legs… they hurt."
Concern flickered in Dylan's eyes as he knelt beside her, carefully lifting her foot. "Let me see..."
His gaze fell on the angry red marks left by her heels. A frown creased his forehead. "Your shoes really did a left injuries on your feet."
He stood up, scanning the room. "Where's that ointment?" he muttered to himself, opening one drawer after another. "Here… no… here… no… ah, finally!" He let out a breath of relief as he pulled out the small bottle.
Returning to Ember, who was still half-asleep, Dylan knelt beside her and spoke softly, "Stay still. Let me apply this."
But as he tried to gently rub the ointment on her foot, she kept shifting her leg, making it difficult for him. He let out a small laugh, shaking his head in amused frustration. "Hey, stop moving. Let me do this properly."
Even in her drowsy state, she mumbled something incoherent, still squirming. After a few more attempts, Dylan finally managed to finish. He sat back with an exaggerated sigh. "Huff! Finally." His lips curled into a fond smile as he watched her peaceful face. "She's this restless even in her sleep... I wonder how she'll be when we get married."
His heart softened as he carefully removed her jewelry, making sure she was comfortable. He pulled the blanket over her and tucked it gently around her. Leaning in, he placed a tender kiss on her forehead. "Good night, sweet dreams," he whispered before quietly stepping out, letting her rest.